Aldi plans could create 400 new jobs

The supermarket has confirmed that it wants to build a major new distribution centre to serve its existing and planned new stores throughout the Midlands region and it has identified land at Sawley Crossroads, just off the A50, as the optimum location to meet the company’s requirements.

Plans for a new Aldi distribution centre at Sawley Crossroads. A planning application is due to be submitted to North West Leicestershire District Council early next year and, if approved, it could create 400 new jobs.

PLANS for a new Aldi distribution centre in Sawley which would create 400 new jobs have been revealed.

The supermarket has confirmed that it wants to build a major new distribution centre to serve its existing and planned new stores throughout the Midlands region and it has identified land at Sawley Crossroads, just off the A50, as the optimum location to meet the company’s requirements.

The scheme will involve a two phase project.

If a planning application is successful, work on the proposed new 600,000 sqft distribution centre will begin next year, providing a unit capable of serving the immediate needs of the growing supermarket business.

The company says there will be opportunities during the construction for local companies to tender for the work and a number of apprentice positions will be made available for local people to train on the construction site.

The site also provides expansion space to meet the anticipated ongoing growth plans of Aldi.

Discussions with the site’s owners, Wilson Bowden Developments Limited, have been concluded and work is now advancing towards a formal planning application being made in the New Year.

A spokesperson for Aldi said: “This is major investment for Aldi. The distribution requirements of the business need to keep pace with the growth of our retail outlets, and we therefore have an urgent need to deliver a new centre to serve our Midlands region.

“The site at Sawley is ideally placed to do this. We have been in talks with North West Leicestershire District Council to ensure that the scheme is deliverable, and we are hopeful that planning will be approved and we can be on-site during 2015.

“The Sawley site also provides a future expansion opportunity for the business, and this too will be covered by the forthcoming planning application.

“This is a key site in our growth plans and will also be a major boost to the local economy of North West Leicestershire.”

Councillor Richard Blunt, leader of North West Leicestershire District Council, added: “The possibility of Aldi bringing at least 400 new jobs to our district is very promising.

“The ambition to drive prosperity for our communities is at the heart of the council, and we work hard to encourage new business and business growth in our district, so we are pleased that Aldi has recognised the benefits of locating in North West Leicestershire.

“The site at Sawley is ideally placed on the main road network and already has a history of mineral extraction and other development.”